Imagine a dessert that transports you straight to the heart of the South with every creamy, decadent spoonful! This Pecan Pralines and Cream Ice Cream is not just a frozen treat; it's a luxurious experience that combines the rich, buttery notes of praline sauce with the crunch of toasted pecans. Get ready to elevate your dessert game and impress your friends and family with a homemade ice cream that rivals any gourmet scoop shop creation.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
- 1/2 cup praline sauce
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar completely dissolves and mixture is smooth.
- Remove mixture from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow the base to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to chill thoroughly.
- While base is chilling, prepare toasted pecans by spreading them on a baking sheet and toasting in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant and golden brown. Let cool completely.
- Pour the chilled cream mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer's instructions, typically 20-25 minutes until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- During the last 5 minutes of churning, gradually add chopped toasted pecans and drizzle in praline sauce to create swirls throughout the ice cream.
- Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container, layering additional praline sauce between scoops for extra flavor.
- Cover the container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm, allowing flavors to fully develop and ice cream to set completely.
- Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-7 minutes to soften slightly for easy scooping.
Tips
- Chill Factor: Ensure your cream mixture is thoroughly chilled before churning. This helps create a smoother, creamier texture and prevents ice crystals from forming.
- Toasting Pecans: Take extra care when toasting pecans. Watch them closely and stir occasionally to prevent burning. The goal is a golden-brown color and fragrant aroma.
- Praline Sauce Technique: When adding praline sauce during churning, drizzle slowly and sparingly to create beautiful swirls without completely mixing the sauce into the ice cream.
- Freezing Hack: For the best texture, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-7 minutes before serving. This allows it to soften slightly, making scooping easier and improving the overall mouthfeel.
- Storage Tip: Store your ice cream in an airtight container with a piece of plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals from forming.
- Make Ahead: This recipe is perfect for preparing in advance. The ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks, making it a great make-ahead dessert for dinner parties or special occasions.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 527kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 84mg
